Root-Brook steady England after rain-hit Day 1 at Sydney Test:England score 211/3 in 45 overs of play at SCG; Starc, Nesser, Bolland bag on wicket each for Australia

The fifth and final Test of the Ashes 2025–26 between Australia and England began at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), but the weather played a major role on the opening day. Continuous rain and poor light allowed only 45 overs of play on Day 1. This is a ‘Pink’ Test played in a special cause for Cancer fighters. England captain Ben Stokes won the toss and chose to bat first, a decision that worked well despite early trouble. By stumps on Day 1, England reached 211 for 3, with Joe Root and Harry Brook unbeaten at the crease. The second day’s play is scheduled to begin on Monday at 4:30 AM (IST), with England looking to build on their strong position. Australia, on the other hand, will hope for clearer weather and early breakthroughs to regain control. Early wickets put England under pressure England’s innings did not start smoothly. Australia struck early and put the visitors under pressure by picking up three wickets inside the first 57 runs. The English top order struggled to settle against the disciplined Australian bowling attack. Ben Duckett was the first to go after scoring 27 runs, followed by Zak Crawley, who managed 16. Young batter Jacob Bethell also failed to convert his start and was dismissed for 10 runs. At that stage, England were in danger of losing control of the innings on a pitch that offered help to the bowlers. Root and Brook Rescue England with 154* run partnership With England in trouble, Joe Root and Harry Brook came together and played a calm and confident partnership. The duo showed patience, strong defence, and smart shot selection to steady the innings. Root played with his usual control and experience, remaining unbeaten on 72 runs, while Brook looked fluent and aggressive at times, finishing the day on 78 not out. Together, they have added an unbroken partnership of 154 runs, completely changing the momentum of the match. Their stand helped England recover from 57 for 3 to 211 for 3, putting the team in a strong position by the end of the day. Starc, Nesser and Bolland bag one wicket each for Australia Despite the strong finish by England, the Australian bowlers had some success early on. Mitchell Starc, Michael Neser, and Scott Boland each picked up one wicket, keeping Australia in the contest during the limited play. However, rain interruptions prevented the hosts from applying sustained pressure later in the day, allowing Root and Brook to settle in. What to expect on Day 2 of the Sydney Test? England will look to continue building a big first-innings total when play resumes. With two well-set batters at the crease, the visitors will aim to put Australia under pressure in this crucial final Test of the Ashes series.